Northampton General Dentist ExplainsWhy Patients Should Consider Dental X-rays

NORTHAMPTON AND EAST LONGMEADOW, MASSACHUSETTS – Many dentists fear a recent published study will sway patients from considering dental X-rays, despite the American Dental Association deeming the study "unreliable."

Dr. Vincent Mariano, a Northampton General Dentist, reveals that studies often fail to make a distinction between traditional and digital X-rays, and do not mention X-rays can aid in the diagnosis of conditions that are not visible to the naked eye.

A study published in the journal "Cancer" titled "Dental X-rays and Risk of Meningioma" utilized participants' recall abilities to determine that meningioma patients are more likely to have undergone certain types of X-rays than non-meningioma patients.

The American Dental Association announced in April that explained results of studies that rely upon participants' memories are unreliable due to "recall bias."

Many patients participating in the study received X-rays decades ago. At the time, X-rays emitted greater amounts of environmental radiation.

Most dental practices refrain from using film radiography technology and instead use digital X-rays.

Digital radiography has reduced exposure to radiation among patients. Digital X-rays improve workflow because they are viewed immediately, aid in quicker diagnosis, and store results electronically. The results can be sent immediately to outside specialists (orthodontists, oral surgeons and other dental specialists).

The human eye alone cannot detect many diseases and oral health conditions. Dentists can identify cysts, tumors and other developmental abnormalities by using digital radiography. When dentists discover complications early on, dentists can treat the conditions with less invasive procedures. Digital X-rays saved patients from spending more time and money at a Springfield, MA Family Dentistry office than necessary.

Patients can find solace in knowing dentists strive to minimize the amount of radiation from digital X-rays that patients are exposed to.

"We educate our patients on the importance of dental X-rays and encourage them to play an active role in their dental health," said Dr. Lisa Emirzian, a provider of porcelain veneers and invisible braces. "Using the ADA's guidelines, we recommend X-rays when they are essential to the well-being of our patients."


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